Crossing Borders – Marzena Polak

Name : Marzena Polak
Born in : Poland
Working in : The Netherlands, Capelle a/d IJssel
Position : Senior Consultant EPCM

How long have you been working in the Netherlands?
For 15 years I live in the Netherlands. I came as an au pair in 2003 and I didn’t want to leave. I still wanted to study so I combined a sociology study for 3 years in Poland with my fulltime job here. Looking back, I am quite amazed how I managed to do that!

What do you do for iPS?
Explain your job.
I got my job at iPS in 2017. I started as a junior consultant and developed to becoming a senior consultant. I really like my job. I enjoy ‘hunting’ the best people, creating a valuable pool of candidates and matching them with the right jobs. I build close relationships with the client as well, so I can make the best match for both sides. It’s all about the perfect match for me.

What are the biggest differences between the Netherlands and Poland? What surprised you the most?
Our culture is pretty similar, however there are language differences. For example, you address others in a formal manner. In the Netherlands they are very open and informal from the get go. I like that, it gives a feeling of equality.

What do you miss the most about Poland?
The food, definitely. Mostly I miss the food my grandma makes! And I also miss the Polish winters. The snowy mountains are so beautiful to see then. In the Netherlands the winters aren’t what they are used to be.

Was it hard to integrate?
No, not really. The Dutch people consider you a lot, so you make friends easily. As colleagues, I really like the Dutch. They are always willing to help, friendly and understand teamwork. Today, I don’t know if I feel more Dutch or Polish. Haha, I think that search will never end!

Tell us about what you’re holding in your hands.
This is a traditional garb the women wear in the mountains of Poland called Zakopane. The specific colours of this region make the design very recognisable. A beautiful piece of culture.

About iPS

Since 1988, iPS became known especially for crewing services for vessels. Soon afterwards, iPS became a major player in the maritime world. There are still clients who see iPS as a crewing specialist for dredgers. Fact is that we are now also filling permanent management positions in various segments.